Leading New York Forward: A Conversation with Kathy Wylde

In this episode of The NYC Workforce Drop, NYCETC CEO Greg Morris welcomes Kathy Wylde, outgoing president & CEO of the Partnership for New York City, for a conversation about affordability, power, and the future of New York’s workforce and economy.Kathy reflects on five decades of shaping the city, from her early organizing in Sunset Park to partnering with David Rockefeller to rebuild neighborhoods in the 1980s. She breaks down her idea of “horizontal and vertical networks,” explaining why real progress in housing, workforce, and economic development requires connections from block associations and community boards all the way to corporate leaders, banks, and federal partners.Greg and Kathy discuss priorities for the new administration, including childcare, housing production and preservation, employer engagement, and strengthening the city’s talent pipeline through initiatives like CUNY Beyond. Kathy also offers insights on political power shifts, what surprises business leaders, and the traits that make an effective mayor.The conversation closes with personal reflections on career, legacy, and Kathy’s “pastel life” in Puerto Rico, a contrast to the intensity of New York and a reminder of the perspective needed to lead through change.A thoughtful, high-impact episode on leadership, collaboration, and building a more affordable and economically vibrant city.Published by: New York City Employment and Training Coalition (NYCETC)Produced by: Manhattan Neighborhood Network